Joaquin Tirano

Prof. Dr. Joaquin Tirano


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

5Years (2022-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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2 March 2022 in Polymers
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
JHJoel Hubbard
Joel Hubbard
JTJoaquin Tirano
Joaquin Tirano
HZHugo Zea
Hugo Zea
CLClaudia C Luhrs
Claudia C Luhrs
Carbon-based nanocomposites featuring enhanced electrical properties have seen increased adoption in applications involving electromagnetic interference shielding and electrostatic dissipation. As the commercialization of these materials grows, a thorough understanding of how thermal activation affects the rheology and electrical performance of CNT–epoxy blends can inform quality decisions throughout the production process. The aim of this work was the identification of the effects that thermal activation has on the electrical and rheological properties of uncured epoxy mixtures and how those may be tied to the resulting cured composites. Herein, three distinct CNT-loaded composite mixtures were characterized for changes in electrical resistivity and viscosity resulting from varying activation times. Electrical conductivity decreased as activation time increased. Uncured mixture viscosity exhibited a strong dependence on CNT loading and applied strain, with activation time being found to significantly reduce the viscosity of the uncured mixture and surface profile of cured composite films. In all cases, cured composites featured improved electrical conductivity over the uncured mixtures. Factors contributing to the observed behavior are discussed. Raman analysis, optical microscopy of CNT networks, and data from silica bead mixing and dispersion studies are presented to contextualize the results.